Moving from suburbs to hill country I failed to appreciate how planting your feet in new soil affects more than just your feet.
A change in geography brings new views, new people, and new routines.
We now spend time visiting with in-laws. Hanging with new friends in a Bible study. Shopping at stores farther away but still the same drive time thanks to no traffic.
I routinely watch the local ground squirrel eat some of the flowers I planted, drink some of the water leftover in the plant saucers, and deposit some of his freshly sucked on persimmon seeds on my patio. Which I also routinely sweep off.
More than just feet stuff. Changing scenery changes one’s whole body.
Sometimes we can’t change our geography. It would be unwise or not worth it in the broader scheme of things. Even new scenery brings its own loss. Especially loss of relationships.
For the times our feet must remain planted where they are, the Bible reminds us: “Since, then, you have been raised with Christ, set your hearts on things above, where Christ is seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things.” – Colossians 3.1,2
It’s difficult to look beyond what our eyes see and hearts feel. Jesus calls us to look to where He is. To appreciate the victory He’s won. To sit with Him in the place of honor He’s been given.
Perhaps you’ve been told “a change of scenery will do you good.” Loving words encouraging your stressed out or near breaking body to take a vacay. Or suggesting the loss you underwent might best be healed in a new locale.
Before you map out the cross country trip or put the house up for sale, set your heart on things above. Jesus has you. Jesus has won. Jesus calls you to come sit with Him.
Give Him the burdens you’re carrying. Trust Him with the anger and loss overwhelming you. Lean into Him when it seems you’re too tired to take another step or too lonely to get out of bed.
You and I are a byproduct of where we live and who we live with. That includes family, friends, and geography.
That includes Jesus. Here and now and in the hereafter.